"Thailandimut Visa-mik Piumasaqaatit Kalaallit Nunaanneersut."

Population: Greenland has a small population of around 56,000 people, whereas Thailand is much more populous with approximately 70 million residents.

Size of Country: Greenland is the world’s largest island, covering an area of about 2.16 million square kilometers. In contrast, Thailand is significantly smaller, with an area of approximately 513,120 square kilometers.

Ethnicity: The majority of Greenland’s population is Inuit (about 88%), with a small minority of Danes and other ethnic groups. Thailand is predominantly Thai (around 95%), with minorities including Chinese, Malay, and various indigenous hill tribes.

Religion: Christianity, particularly Protestantism, is the dominant religion in Greenland. Thailand is predominantly Buddhist (around 94%), with Islam, Christianity, and other religions making up the remainder.

GDP: Greenland’s GDP is relatively low, heavily reliant on fishing and subsidies from Denmark. Thailand has a more diversified economy with a GDP that is significantly higher, driven by manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, and services.

Population Age Brackets: Greenland has a younger population with a median age of around 34 years. Thailand has an aging population with a median age of about 40 years.

Men vs Women: In Greenland, the gender ratio is roughly equal, though men slightly outnumber women. Thailand also has a nearly balanced gender ratio, with women slightly outnumbering men.

Source of Popular Types of Income: In Greenland, the primary sources of income include fishing, hunting, and government subsidies. Tourism is also growing but remains limited. Thailand’s economy benefits from a variety of sources including agriculture (notably rice), manufacturing (electronics, textiles), and a robust tourism industry.

Violent Crime

Thailand generally experiences lower rates of violent crime compared to many Western countries. Violent crimes such as armed robbery and assault are relatively rare in tourist areas. However, it is always wise to exercise caution and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas, especially at night.

Casual Crime

Petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, particularly in crowded places such as markets, tourist attractions, and public transportation hubs. Keeping personal belongings secure and being aware of your surroundings can mitigate these risks.

Crimes of Passion

Crimes of passion, often linked to domestic disputes or personal relationships, do occur but are generally not a concern for tourists. These incidents are usually isolated and involve individuals who know each other.

Safety for Solo Women Travelers

Thailand is generally safe for solo women travelers. Nonetheless, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding walking alone in secluded areas at night and being cautious when accepting drinks from strangers. Many solo female travelers report positive experiences, but staying vigilant is key.

Walking Around at Night

Walking around at night in well-populated and well-lit areas is generally safe. Tourist areas like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket have a vibrant nightlife with many people around. However, it is still recommended to stay in groups or use reputable transportation options like metered taxis or ride-hailing services.

Scamming

Scams targeting tourists are quite common in Thailand. Popular scams include overcharging for taxi rides, gem scams, and fake tour operators. Always use reputable services, agree on prices beforehand, and be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true. Researching common scams before your trip can help you recognize and avoid them.

By understanding these aspects of crime and safety, travelers from Greenland can better prepare for a secure and enjoyable visit to Thailand.

Greenland and Thailand may seem worlds apart, but there are some surprising similarities in their culinary practices, particularly in the use of fresh, local ingredients and an emphasis on seafood. In Greenland, meals often feature fish, seal, and whale, reflecting the country’s Arctic environment. Similarly, Thailand’s coastal regions offer a bounty of seafood, though with a distinctly tropical twist.

In Thailand, travelers from Greenland can explore a variety of seafood dishes that might feel somewhat familiar yet excitingly different. For example, they can try Tom Yum Goong, a hot and sour shrimp soup flavored with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chilies. Another must-try is Pla Pao, which is grilled fish stuffed with lemongrass and covered in a salt crust, offering a unique preparation method that highlights the freshness of the seafood.

Vegetable consumption is another commonality. While Greenlandic cuisine often features root vegetables like potatoes and turnips, Thai cuisine uses a wide variety of vegetables in its dishes. Travelers should not miss Som Tum, a spicy green papaya salad that combines shredded papaya with tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, and a spicy lime dressing. Another delightful option is Pad Pak Boong Fai Daeng, stir-fried morning glory with garlic and chilies.

For those looking to explore beyond seafood and vegetables, Thai cuisine offers a rich array of meat dishes. They can try Moo Ping, grilled pork skewers marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, or Gai Pad Med Mamuang, stir-fried chicken with cashew nuts. These dishes provide a delicious contrast to Greenlandic meat dishes like reindeer or musk ox.

In terms of beverages, while Greenlanders might be accustomed to coffee and tea, Thailand offers a refreshing change with drinks like Thai Iced Tea and Nam Manao (limeade). These beverages are perfect for cooling down in Thailand’s tropical climate.

Overall, while the ingredients and flavors may differ, travelers from Greenland will find that the emphasis on fresh, local produce and straightforward cooking methods provides a comforting bridge between the two culinary worlds.

Travelers from Greenland will find Thailand to be a vibrant and culturally rich destination with distinct customs and social norms. Understanding these differences can enhance your experience and help you build meaningful connections.

Making Friends

Thai people are generally friendly and welcoming. A common greeting is the “wai,” where you place your palms together in a prayer-like gesture and bow slightly. When meeting new people, especially elders or those in positions of respect, it’s polite to initiate a wai. Smiling is also a big part of Thai culture, often used to express friendliness, politeness, and even to diffuse tension.

What to Do

• Dress Modestly: When visiting temples or religious sites, wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. This shows respect for local customs.
• Use Both Hands: When giving or receiving something, use both hands or your right hand supported by your left. This is considered polite.
• Learn Basic Thai Phrases: Simple phrases like “Sawasdee” (Hello), “Khob khun” (Thank you), and “Mai pen rai” (It’s okay) can go a long way.

What Not to Do

• Avoid Touching Heads: The head is considered the most sacred part of the body. Avoid touching anyone’s head, including children.
• Don’t Point Your Feet: Pointing feet at people or religious objects is considered disrespectful. When sitting, try not to show the soles of your feet.
• Public Displays of Affection: Holding hands is generally acceptable, but more intimate displays of affection are frowned upon.

Habits to Leave Behind

• Direct Confrontation: Thais value harmony and avoid confrontation. Expressing anger or frustration openly can be seen as losing control and is frowned upon.
• Loud Behavior: Being overly loud or boisterous in public can be seen as rude. Try to maintain a calm and composed demeanor.

Deportment and Respect

• Respect for Elders: Show respect to older people by addressing them politely and allowing them precedence in queues.
• Remove Shoes: Always remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple.
• Public Transport Etiquette: Offer your seat to monks, elderly people, and pregnant women. Keep noise levels down and avoid eating on public transport.

Religious Places

• Dress Appropriately: As mentioned, modest clothing is essential.
• Respect Rituals: Observe and respect local rituals and practices. For example, when visiting a temple, walk around it in a clockwise direction.
• Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos inside temples or of monks.

Public Presentation of Oneself

• Modesty is Key: Thais appreciate modesty in behavior and appearance. Avoid flashy or overly revealing clothing.
• Cleanliness: Maintaining personal cleanliness is important. Thais often shower multiple times a day due to the hot climate.

Losing and Gaining Face

In Thai culture, “face” refers to one’s reputation, dignity, and social standing. “Losing face” means experiencing embarrassment or humiliation, while “gaining face” involves actions that bring honor or respect.

• Avoid Criticism in Public: Publicly criticizing someone can cause them to lose face. If you need to address an issue, do so privately and tactfully.
• Compliments and Praise: Offering sincere compliments can help others gain face. Be generous with praise when it’s deserved.
• Handle Mistakes Gracefully: If you make a mistake, apologize quietly without making a scene. This helps maintain harmony and respect.

By understanding and respecting these cultural nuances, travelers from Greenland can enjoy a more enriching experience in Thailand and foster positive interactions with the locals.

Bringing Phone from Greenland

Ensure your phone is unlocked for international use. Thai mobile networks operate on GSM 900/1800 MHz frequencies, which should be compatible with most phones from Greenland.

Internet Availability

Thailand has extensive 4G coverage and is rolling out 5G in major cities. Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants. Consider purchasing a local SIM card at the airport for convenience.

Dominant Messaging Apps

LINE is the most popular messaging app in Thailand. WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger are also commonly used but to a lesser extent.

Must-Download Apps Before Arrival

• Google Maps: For navigation.
• LINE: For communication.
• Grab: For taxis and food delivery.
• Bangkok MRT/BTS: For public transport in Bangkok.
• Klook: For booking activities and tours.
• XE Currency Converter: To check exchange rates.

Currency

The official currency is the Thai Baht (THB). It’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in rural areas.

ATM Use

ATMs are widely available, though they often charge a fee (around 200 THB) for foreign cards. Look for ATMs affiliated with international banks like HSBC or Citibank to potentially minimize fees.

Taxi Apps

Grab is the go-to app for booking taxis, as well as ride-sharing services. Traditional taxis are also available, but ensure the meter is used.

Food Delivery

GrabFood, Foodpanda, and LINE MAN are the leading food delivery apps. They offer a wide range of local and international cuisine options.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, upscale restaurants, and malls. However, smaller shops and street vendors usually prefer cash.

Shopping

Thailand offers diverse shopping experiences from luxurious malls like Siam Paragon in Bangkok to bustling street markets like Chatuchak Weekend Market. Haggling is common in markets but not in malls.

Trains

The State Railway of Thailand operates an extensive network of trains. For intercity travel, booking in advance is recommended. The SRT app can be useful for schedules and bookings.

Local Buses

Local buses are an affordable way to get around, though they can be confusing for non-Thai speakers. In Bangkok, the BMTA app provides routes and schedules. For longer distances, consider using VIP buses for more comfort.

Acceptance of Men from Greenland

Thai culture is generally welcoming and friendly towards foreigners, including men from Greenland. However, your unique background might be a curiosity for many Thai people, which can be a great conversation starter. Understanding and respecting Thai customs and traditions can go a long way in building good relationships.

Funny Ways to Tell Women You Are from Greenland

A light-hearted way to introduce your Greenlandic heritage could be to say, “I come from a land of ice and polar bears!” This can be both amusing and intriguing, prompting questions and further conversation.

Which Dating Apps to Use

Popular dating apps in Thailand include Tinder, Bumble, and ThaiCupid. These platforms have a large user base and are commonly used for both casual and serious relationships.

Good Opening Lines to Use with Thai Women on the Apps

• “Hi! I’m from Greenland, the land of the Northern Lights. Have you ever seen them?”
• “Hello! I bet you’ve never met someone from Greenland before. Let’s change that!”
• “Sawadee krub! Do you want to hear a cool story about Greenland?”

Teaching Thai Women About Greenlandic Culture

Share interesting facts about Greenland, such as the unique Inuit traditions, the stunning Arctic landscapes, and the midnight sun. You can also talk about traditional Greenlandic foods and festivals.

Dressing and Personal Hygiene

Dress neatly and casually; Thais appreciate cleanliness and good grooming. In hot weather, light clothing is advisable, but avoid overly casual attire like flip-flops and tank tops in more formal settings.

Examples of Red Flags You Should Watch For

• Excessive interest in your financial status
• Avoidance of personal questions
• Reluctance to meet in person after prolonged chatting
• Requests for money or expensive gifts

Examples of Scams on Dating Apps

Common scams include fake profiles designed to extract money, catfishing, and individuals claiming to have emergencies requiring financial assistance. Always verify the identity of the person you are talking to before making any commitments.

Major Difference in Dating Between Greenland and Thailand

In Thailand, dating often involves more traditional courtship practices. Family approval can be very important, and relationships may progress more slowly compared to Western standards. Public displays of affection are also less common.

Major Differences Between Thai Women and Greenlandic Women

Thai women often place a high value on family traditions and may be more reserved initially. They may also expect their partners to show respect towards their family and culture. Greenlandic women might be more direct and independent in comparison.

Popular First Date Activities

• Visiting a night market
• Having dinner at a local restaurant
• Exploring temples or cultural sites
• Taking a cooking class together
• Enjoying a boat ride on the Chao Phraya River

Red Light Districts

Famous red light districts include Patpong in Bangkok, Walking Street in Pattaya, and Bangla Road in Phuket. Be cautious if you decide to visit these areas as they are known for their nightlife but also for potential scams.

Prostitution on Dating Apps

Be aware that some profiles on dating apps might be linked to prostitution. Signs include overly suggestive photos, immediate offers for “services,” or requests for payment upfront. Always use caution and report suspicious profiles.

10 Places to Meet Thai Women Outside of Dating Apps

1. Coffee Shops: Popular chains like Starbucks or local cafes.
2. University Campuses: Areas around major universities like Chulalongkorn or Thammasat.
3. Shopping Malls: CentralWorld, Siam Paragon, and Terminal 21.
4. Night Markets: Chatuchak Weekend Market or Asiatique.
5. Parks: Lumpini Park or Chatuchak Park.
6. Cultural Events: Festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions.
7. Language Exchange Meetups: Events where people practice different languages.
8. Fitness Centers: Gyms like Fitness First or local yoga studios.
9. Cooking Classes: Thai cooking schools offering classes for foreigners.
10. Volunteer Activities: Local NGOs or community service events.

Enjoy your time in Thailand and embrace the rich cultural experiences it has to offer!

Practical Guide to Extending a Thai Tourist Visa or Visa Exemption for Greenlandic Passport Holders

Extending your stay in Thailand as a Greenlandic passport holder involves a few straightforward steps. Here’s a practical guide to help you through the process:

1. Gather Required Documents

• Passport: Ensure it is valid for at least 6 months from the date of extension.
• TM.7 Form: This is the application form for visa extension. You can download it from the Thai Immigration Bureau website or obtain it at the immigration office.
• Passport-sized Photo: One recent photo (4x6 cm).
• Proof of Funds: Bank statement or cash showing sufficient funds to support your stay.
• Proof of Accommodation: Hotel booking or a letter from your host if staying with friends or family.

2. Visit the Immigration Office

• Locate the nearest Thai Immigration Office. Major offices are located in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya.
• Arrive early to avoid long queues. Offices typically open around 8:30 AM.

3. Submit Your Application

• Fill out the TM.7 form accurately.
• Attach your passport-sized photo to the form.
• Submit the form along with your passport and other required documents at the immigration counter.
• Pay the extension fee, which is usually 1,900 THB.

4. Wait for Processing

• The processing time can vary but generally takes a few hours.
• You may be asked to wait at the office or return later in the day.

5. Receive Your Extended Visa

• Once approved, your passport will be stamped with the new visa extension date.
• Double-check the stamp to ensure all details are correct before leaving the office.

6. Stay Compliant

• Be mindful of your new visa expiration date.
• If you plan to stay longer, consider applying for another extension or exploring other visa options.

Tips for a Smooth Process

• Dress Appropriately: Wear respectful attire as a sign of respect to Thai officials.
• Bring Extra Copies: Have additional copies of your documents in case they are required.
• Language Barrier: While many officials speak English, having a Thai-speaking friend or a translation app can be helpful.

By following these steps, you can successfully extend your Thai tourist visa or visa exemption and enjoy more of what Thailand has to offer.